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CCEE1204 Australia Day

2012-01-26T00:01:00.003-05:00

Frances is our hostess for the month of January. Her challenge to the CCEE Stampers this week is....

It’s a special day for all Aussies today as it is Australia Day! It is on this day in 1788 that the First Fleet arrived at Sydney Cove. So our challenge is Aussie related … I will give you a few options … use the colors green & gold on your card; create a beach scene (we love our beaches); use Australian Animals; Tongs (you wear on your feet btw) etc.

Well, as probably could be predicted, I went with the beach theme. I had not inked up this set from Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps, so this was a perfect excuse to do so.

Be sure to see how the rest of the team is helping Frances in celebrating her country's national holiday by visiting the CCEE Stampers Blog.

Totally Stampalicious Monday ....Masculine

2012-01-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

The challenge for the Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge this week was to make a masculine card. Of course, I reached for the newly released Fishing Gus. I just love this pair of sentiments. They crack me up!!!

Be sure to visit the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the masculine creations of the rest of the DT. I struggle a bit with masculine cards, so I know I will be inspired by the creations on the blog.

The Crazies and MFT

2012-01-21T00:01:00.003-05:00

The sponsor for this week's Crazy4Challenges is.....

As hostess for the Crazy4Challenges this month, I challenged the Crazies to created birthday cards for children. I used this set from My Favorite Things, Birthday Flopsey. I used an EK Success punch for the candle border, a Sizzix embossing folder, Spellbinder dies, designer paper, and brads to create the card.

Be sure to check out the fab children's b'day cards from the rest of the team at the Crazies blog. You are sure to be motivated and inspired.

The Chinese New Year with the CCEE

2012-01-18T23:18:00.000-05:00

Frances is our hostess for the CCEE Stampers Challenge in January and here is her challenge for this week....

Chinese New Year is celebrated on January 23rd this year and it is the Year of the Dragon … so this week either use a Dragon on your card or find out what animal relates to your birthday year in the Chinese Zodiac and create a card using that animal.

I thought I did not have a dragon stamp (late discovered that I did), so I went with the animal that relates to my birthday which is an ox. Of course, I do not have an ox stamp. So....what to do??!!! Well, I did a search on the computer and came up with this clip art which I just love.

Something you may not know is that I love papercuttings. I have many from Poland from when I visited there. I also have some from China which friends have bought me on their travels. Well, this clip art happens to be in the style of a Chinese paper cut, so it caught my eye and I decided to go with it.

The sentiment is the only thing I stamped. It is from a retired SU set. This sketch is one I remember from a challenge a while ago.

Now.....take a 'trip' to the CCEE blog to see the fabulous and celebratory cards related to the Chinese New Year. Brandi Wiggins is joining the team this week.

What's Shaking?

2012-01-17T00:01:00.001-05:00

This card was created for today's Tea Party Challenge on SCS. We were to create funny cards to help cheer up a young lady who has been hospitalized since mid-December with leukemia. I have many funny stamps, but I went with this one as I am dedicating it to 'Mudda', the leader of the Tea Party Challenge who happens to love 'bunny butts'.

This sweet little stamp set is from VERVE.

Totally Stampalicious Monday - Valentines

2012-01-16T00:01:00.002-05:00

It is time for another Totally Stampalicious Monday Blog Challenge. This week we are getting a start on our Valentine's cards. I used two sets for this card. The main image comes from a newly released set called Monkey Love. The sentiment comes from the set called Winter Bird Snowman.

If you are thinking of getting started on your V-day cards, why not play along with us? For inspiration, be sure to visit the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the sweet V-day cards created by this totally stampalicious DT.

C4C119....The Crazies are BLUE!!!

2012-01-14T00:01:00.001-05:00

As hostess for the month of January, I challenge the Crazy4Challenge team to make a monochromatic blue card. I have a feeling we will be seeing some cool blue masterpieces this week. Always so fun to see the various interpretations of any challenge.

I used a sentiment by My Favorite Things as my focal point. I then played around with my Spellbinders, Primas, paper piercing, pearl flourishes and single pearls. Kind of an easy-peasy card but with some class.

Be sure to go to the Crazies Blog to see the fab work of the rest of this inspirational team.

CCEE1202

2012-01-12T00:01:00.001-05:00

Hi! Welcome to the CCEE Stampers Challenge. This week Frances challenged us to a sketch challenge.

Sketch challenges are really fun. It is exciting to see how different the cards can become even though they start from the same basic design. I have an apology to make. After getting the basics of my card done, I never looked at the sketch again.....and forgot to put the elements at the right of the diagonal. But.....no problem......we do this for fun, so I know I will be forgiven?????

I used this sweet image from Penny Black.

Now...you need to head over to the CCEE Stampers Challenge Blog to see the fab creations of the rest of the team.........AND when you do that you will be introduced to some of the NEW team members. The CCEE DT is expanding so added inspiration will be provided each week. HOW FUN!!!!!

Giggle along with TS Monday

2012-01-08T22:53:00.000-05:00

After a brief hiatus from challenges, the Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge is back!! Our goal this week was to use humor......which is really not a chore with this fun line of stamps!!! I used the Stella Fairy set which always gives me a big grin. My card is actually a small (4.25 inch) square card. It is pretty simple in design, but I think it highlights the fun image and sentiment. What do you think????

So if you want a smile today you might want to put a visit to the Totally Stampalicious Blog....there is sure to be a smile, giggle, laugh, or even a guffaw provided by our fabulous design team.

AND.....I just thought I'd share a pic of the pups....haven't done so in a while......THEY are the reason why I have LESS stamping time in recent weeks. They are so entertaining that the minutes just slip away!!!

For those of you new to my blog, Both of these pups are rescues from Tennessee. Angel on the left in the first picture has been with us for almost a year and is just 14 months old. She is our precious mutt. Teddy, the Shih Tzu to the right, is a bit over 4 months old and has been with us since November.

Aren't they just the cutest?????

The CRAZIES are back!!!

2012-01-07T00:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the first Crazy4Challenges post for 2012!!! Doesn't it just seem like yesterday that we were talking about the change from one century to another and here it is 2012 already. AMAZING!!!

Anyhoooooo.....I am the hostess for the Crazy4Challenge Crazies this month AND.....I was thinking that many of us probably have new toys and supplies to play with from the holidays....either gifts from others OR gifts to ourselves!!! So this week I asked the Crazies to play with something new. That should be an easy one, right??? We hope you will join us.

Be sure to go to the Crazies blog to check out the fantabulous work of this outstanding group of stampers. See what new toys/supplies they have....and maybe YOU will want them too!!!!

By the way, this card was created using this week's sketch from My Favorite Things. Here is the sketch if you would like to play.

Totally Stampalicious New Release and Blog Hop

2012-01-05T21:00:00.002-05:00

(If you are looking for my CCEE Stampers Challenge card, click HERE!)

Happy New Year from Totally Stampalicious!!!

(Made using Monkey Love)

Welcome to the 2nd Stop of our FIRST RELEASE of 2012 and our BLOG HOP!

We have FIVE BRAND NEW STAMP SETS from our fabulous Bugaboo line by artist
Jodie Mackerell!! They are AVAILABLE NOW at Totally Stampalicious!

(Made using the set Gus Fishing)

As always we'll be giving away PRIZES as well to THREE lucky Hoppers!!!
1st Prize - All 5 New Sets
2nd Prize - $15 Gift Certficate
3rd Prize - $5 Gift Certificate
All you have to do is Hop along with us and leave your comments along the way and maybe
YOU could be a WINNER!!!!

(Made using the set JJ Desperate Housewife)

We also have an incredible promotion going on...so even if you don't get a prize you can still be a WINNER!!

It's the Stampalicious Dessert Menu

Level 1 - Vanilla Ice Cream - Buy 5 Get 1 Free

Level 2 - Strawberry Shortcake - Buy 8 Get 2 Free

Level 3 - Triple Layer Chocolate Cake - Buy 11 Get 3 Free

(Made using the set Stella Another Drink)

Now it's time to hop on over to the fabulously inspiring Stacy's Blog to see what Stampalicious delights she has to share!!!

(Made using the set Occupation Bears)

Here is the entire line-up in case there are any glitches along the way!!

Totally Stampalicious

Joanne

Stacy

Angel

Jessica

Kendra

Dawn

Lori

Julie

Jessie

Laurie

Lynda

Becky

Joycelyn

Vicki

CCEE1201 --

2012-01-05T07:35:00.000-05:00

Welcome back to the CCEE Stampers Challenge!!!

Frances is our hostess for the month of January. This was her challenge....

Yesterday 4th January was Jakob Grimm’s birthday … he was born in 1785 and was responsible for many of the popular fairy tales that we enjoy today including Cinderella, Snow White; Sleeping Beauty; Hansel and Gretel; Rapunzel and many more found in Grimm’s Fairy Tales. So our challenge today is to create a card using one of the Grimm’s Fairy Tales as your inspiration … don’t forget to tell us which one you chose.

My inspiration came from Sleeping Beauty. This image, by Michelle Perkett, just looks like a fairytale character to me and Sleeping Beauty just came to mind. I apologize for the 'muddy' photo.

Now, be sure to check out the CCEE Blog to see what the fairytales inspired the rest of the team to create.

Happy New Year to all.......and to my CCEE buddies.....I am so delighted to be starting another year with you all, my dear stamping friends.

So sorry my post is late........somehow when I scheduled it it became a draft....who knows????

Totally Stampalicious Monday 'BLING'

2011-12-19T00:01:00.001-05:00

As the last challenge for 2011, we here at Totally Stampalicious Monday decided to 'bling' it up!!! And somehow, in my world, Ms. Scarlette says BLING to me. I went with non-traditional colors and lots of BLING along with some BLING snowflakes as well.

Be sure to visit the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see how the DT is 'blinging' up the holiday!!!

AND.......Merry Christmas to all and Happy New Year too!!!! See you at the next TS Monday Challenge in January 2012!!!

CCEE Challenge -- My Card of Calamities

2011-12-15T00:01:00.001-05:00

Considering how this card was created, it 'ain't bad'!!!!! Here is my story step by step.

1. I thought I had this card done and posted until about 7 o'clock tonight.
2, When I realized I was mistaken...off to the stamp cave I descended.
3, Embossed the ornament in red and then embossed the center decoration in what I thought was black....turned out to be copper. Had to redo. Not bad so far, right????
4, Pushed back my chair to reach for my heating gun.....and the caster on the front leg of my stampcave chair broke off......ackward seating for the rest of the creative session.
5. Redid the ornament, using the black embossing powder for the center decoration.....starting to feel okay again.
6. Cut the papers for the background and decided to use a punch to 'fancify' the corrners. When I pulled out the drawer that holds my small punches, the handle and entire front of the drawer came off in my hands. Will fix that another day.
7. Finally had everything ready to go......but my quilling glue bottle was no where to be seen. In the process of trying to find that, I lost the die cut 'ribbon' and had to die cut once again.
8. Finally remembered that the glue bottle was upstairs from when I had to repair some Christmas cards so headed up to 'put it all together'. However, upstairs I did not have a thin enough pin to clear the end of my glue container....so down two flights of stairs to get a pin AND up two flights to finish my task.
9. Card is finally completed BUT, as you will see when you look at this carefully, the 'tail' on my 'ribbon' is crooked and does not go to the jewel as it should....but ya know what.......it is what it is and it is staying that way......lol!!!

By the way...the CCEE challenge was to have a card/project that was ornament related in some way. I used this set by Waltzingmouse Stamps. Please be sure to go to the CCEE Blog for fabulous ornamental creations done by the fantasticly talented and creative DT.

Be Merry with Totally Stampalicious Monday

2011-12-12T00:01:00.002-05:00

The challenge at Totally Stampalicious Monday this week was to have food or drink on your card/project. Well, since I am still finishing up my stash of holiday cards, I went with a holiday theme.......sassy though it is......lol!!!! This set is called Margaret December. There is a candy cane in her pocket AND candy canes galore on the bkgd., so I think I have the food category covered.

Be sure to go to the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see some positively deeeeelish creations by this fabulously talented team.

The Stash Grows

2011-12-11T00:01:00.001-05:00

It is getting down to 'mail' time and I had to spend the afternoon making a bundle of cards. Some were made to play in my friend Sue's VSN Challenge on SCS to make blue holiday cards....others were made using some scraps from the blue cards along with other colors. All were kept pretty simple......and...here they are......no details....just cards......

Thanks for taking the time to stop by and checking out my 'growing stash' of holiday cards.

The Crazies are crazy for SANTA

2011-12-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

The Crazy4Challenges gals are honoring SANTA this week by featuring him in some way on our cards/projects. I used my fav SANTA from Flourishes. I also used the sketch from Flourishes' Timeless Tuesday Challenge. Clean and simple AND quick. I still need cards for my stash.

If you BELIEVE (or just want to be inspired), be sure to stop in to see Santa on the Crazies Blog.

The CCEE Stampers Challenge

2011-12-08T00:01:00.001-05:00

The challenge for the CCEE Stampers this week was to use chipboard in some way. I have been playing with this package of chipboard snowflakes for a week or two. They are glittery in the silver and gold tones. I decided to go pretty simple for today......lots of texture, but not many details!!!

Please be sure to check out the fabulous work by the wonderfully talented members of this challenge DT at the CCEE Stampers Blog. I know you will be inspired and motivated by their outstanding creations.

Even in a cold wind, NUBBLE ROCKS!!!

2011-12-06T19:20:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, a friend and I took a day's trip up to Maine to do some 'sweets' shopping AND to stop in to check out Nubble Light......one of my fav places in the world. The day was really pretty mild for December, but the winds and waves were roaring at Nubble.....thus the mulilayerd look.....hat under hood and sweatshirt hoodie under coat........however......no matter what the weather, a trip to Nubble is always a joy.

A Totally Stampalicious Monday

2011-12-05T14:35:00.000-05:00

The Monday Challenge from Totally Stampalicious this week was to have some snow on the card/project. Well, I used my Martha Stewart snowflake border/corner punch set to get the job done. I also added a snowflake button and added some bling to all of the snowflakes for a sparkling holiday card. I used this winter bird and snowman image from the Bugaboo Line at Totally Stampalicious.

I hope you can stop in to the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the 'snowstorm' created by the DT.

My apologies for the late posting. It was scheduled ahead of time, but for some odd reason Blogger did not post it correctly. Just a glitch, I guess.

Christmas Movies with the Crazies

2011-12-03T00:01:00.001-05:00

Well, I was a bit late with making my card this week, but it did give me a chance to play with a new toy.....this window die from Memory Box. I had seen Kittie from SCS create so many beautiful cards using it and just HAD to HAVE it. It should be a 'die for all seasons'. Anyhooooooo.....

The Crazy4Challenges challenge this week was to make a card based on your fav holiday movie. Well, during Christmas I traditionally watch all the OLD movies. One of my fav is called Christmas in Ccnnecticut. It is a sweet AND hilarious old movie. The scenery in this movie is full of snow and country scenes.

Can't wait, like me, to see what movies the other Crazies love???? Well, come by the Crazies Blog to see their inspiring pieces.

A Story to Tell....from Photo to Cards

2011-12-02T00:01:00.006-05:00

This is the story behind these sets of cards. About a year ago or so a dear friend shared photos with me of a young girl having a tea party in the snow. The girl in the photos is a granddaughter of my friend's friend. (Are you following me so far???) Well.....since it was the day of a Tea Party Challenge on SCS, I decided to share the photos with my dear friend Cindy, the Mudda in charge of the Tea Party. Well, somehow Cindy shared the photos with Leigh from Happileigh Scrappin' Digital Images. Leigh made digis from the photos and gave them to me.

Here are the original pictures.

I was determined to get three sets of cards made from these images....one set for the young girl depicted, one for her mother, and the third for the grandmother who shared the photo with my friend. Accompanying this post is a sample card from each set. I had to keep them fairly simple to make them flat and easily mailable for the recipients. I hope they like them.

This last one was done using the Sketch Challenge from SCS.

Hope they all like their card sets.

'Flaking' and 'Blinging' with the CCEE

2011-12-01T00:01:00.001-05:00

As the hostess for this week's challenge, I asked the CCEE Stampers to use snowflakes and bling. I had bought this package of chipboard snowflakes and have been having some fun with them on cards. So that was the source of my snowflakes. I then added some bling to the flakes, along with my sentiment on a die cut from Spellbinders. A very easy card....but I do think it packs a punch. What do you think????

Please be sure to visit the CCEE Stampers Blog to see what Tosh, Charlene, Cindy, Shirley, and Frances have created......they are sure to dazzle you with their talents (and some bling, too)!!!!

Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge

2011-11-28T00:01:00.000-05:00

The goal for this week's Totally Stampalcious Monday Challenge was to make a holiday card with nontraditional colors. I used the set called Scarlette Mistletoe from the Bugaboo line. I used pink and brown for my nontraditional colors.

Please take a moment to head to the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the outstanding creations by the rest of the team AND to be checking out the dessert menu which allows YOU to earn some FREE STAMP SETS based on the size of your order. You don't want to miss this SPECIAL MENU for SAVINGS!!!!

The Crazies are playing with SNOW

2011-11-25T23:42:00.000-05:00

The Crazies were challenged this week to make a card with snow on it. I went with a simple embossing folder, some cardstock glittery snowflakes, and a simple sentiment. Please be sure to visit the Crazy4Challenges Blog to see the wintery creations of the rest of this fabulous team.

I apologize once again for the muddy photo.......gotta work on that......!!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving and some challenges to share

2011-11-24T00:01:00.002-05:00

Tosh's countdown continues for the CCEE Stampers Challenge this week. Our challenge was to make a ONE LAYER card. I went right away to my drawer of big block stamps.....an easy way to make a one layer card. A lot of masking was involved, but it really was an fun experience as I hadn't played with this 5 block pattern for a long time. I used my fav snowflake backgrounder for the images. I added some brads and paper piercing and that was about it.....I had truly made a one layer card I was extremely happy with...........

UNTIL...........I came up from the stamp cave and dropped the card on the desk in the kitchen, right near the Keurig.........can you guess what happened........well......whoever made coffee last (to be honest, probably ME!) had left a few drops of coffee on the counter. The front corrners of my card absorbed the coffee quite efficiently......so....what was I to do.....yep, I love the card, but, nope, I did not want to relive the experience....

SO.....I cheated......I cute out the 5 block CLEAN part and glued it to a new base. So, to be honest it no longer is a ONE layer card..........that is my sad story.......but please know that originally is was LEGAL!!!

Now go to the CCEE Blog to see some fabulous one layer LEGAL cards.

This card is one I made for the MFT Sketch Challenge this week. The image and sentiment are from MFT.

This card was made for the Color Challenge on SCS this week. The stamp is by I Brake for Stamps.

This card was made for the Sketch Challenge on SCS this week. The stamp is from SU and the poinsettias were created using a Spellbinder die set and a Martha Stewart fern punch.

This last card was done for both the Sketch Challenge and the Color Challenge on SCS this week. I forgot to write down the name of the sentiment stamp. I 'think' the climg stamp of the snowmen is by Penny Black, but I am not sure of that.

If you have gotten this far, I thank you for taking the time. I also wish you and yours the Happiest of Thanksgiving Days.

Say 'Hello' to Teddy

2011-11-21T00:02:00.003-05:00

If you are looking for my Totally Stampalicious post, click HERE.

Angel has been missing our dear Pepper since September. I am so happy to say that she is not lonely anymore. On Saturday we met the 'rescue' transport truck to meet face-to-face this cutie patootie (a rescued Shih Tzu) who was joining our family. Isn't he just the cutest furball????? His name is Teddy, and we are glad to say that he and Angel became acquainted in a very short time and went running around the backyard. Angel is an incredibly fast runner, so I think Teddy has his work cut out for him!!!!

We soon took the leash off and lots of frisky fun followed.

Thanks for taking time to stop in to meet the pooches.

Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge

2011-11-21T00:01:00.005-05:00

The Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge for this week was to use stamps from two or more different sets. I used the image from Winter Bird Snowman and the sentiment from Deacon Elf, both sets from the most recent release. I also went with some non-traditional colors based on my coloring of the image. I like it for a change of pace.

Please remember that Totally Stampalicious is still offering you a fabulous......

DESSERT MENU of savings.

Level 1 - Vanilla Ice Cream - Buy 5 Get 1 Free
Add 5 items to your shopping cart and then enter the code VANILLA
Level 2 - Strawberry Shortcake - Buy 8 Get 2 Free
Add 8 items to your shopping cart and then enter the code STRAWBERRY
Level 3 - Triple Layer Chocolate Cake - Buy 11 Get 3 Free
Add 11 items to your cart and then enter the code CHOCOLATE

Here are the links to help navigate Totally Stampalicious.

Click HERE to go check out the store and fill your cart with goodies.
Click HERE to check out the fabulous creations by the rest of this very talented and creative team.

Crazy4Challenges

2011-11-19T00:01:00.003-05:00

Our challenge for the Crazy4Challenges this week was to make a card/project using black and white and one POP of color. I went with my fav RED for the POP. I used a very old, retired SU set for my images this week. I kept the design simple and flat for simplified mailing purposes. I forgot to write down the name of the company for the sentiment.

Be sure to stop in at the Crazies Blog to check out the black, white, and POP creations of this fabulously talented design challenge team. You won't be disappointed, I can promise that!!!!

The CCEE Countdown Continues......

2011-11-16T23:37:00.000-05:00

Tosh has challenged the CCEE Stampers to countdown challenges this month. The first week we had to use 4 different embellies. Last week we used 3 different shapes. This week our challenge was to use 2 punches or dies. Quite honestly, I over-achieved this week.....I used wayyyyy more than two. I used my fav corner rounder, along with my Spellbinder poinsettia and circles dies as well as a My Favoritie Things doily die. I also used a Martha Stewart branch punch. My image is from Mark's Finest Papers set called Cardinals in Winter.

Please be sure to visit the CCEE blog to see the fabulous work of my fellow team members. They dazzle me each week, so I am sure you will be inspired and amazed.

Going 3-D with Totally Stampalicious

2011-11-14T07:25:00.000-05:00

The Totally Stampalcious DT was challenged this week to make 3-D gift packaging of some sort. My 'treat' package holds two hot chocolate K-cups. I thought it was the perfect match to the set I used which is called Poppi Cocoa which had the perfect sentiment for this 'treat'.

Be sure to visit the Totally Stampalicious Blog as I am sure there will be 'treats' for you to see. We would love for you to play along with us as well.

Challenge Goes "3" Crazy

2011-11-12T00:01:00.001-05:00

Our challenge for the Crazy4Challenges is to use three shapes three papers, and three embellies. For the papers I used two dps and the base cardstock. For the shapes, I used oval, rectangle, and 'wonky'. I used brads, buttons, and twine for the embellies. The image I used is from Totally Stampalicious.

The Crazies Blog will be a great place to see some 'crazy' fabulous creations this week. Be sure to stop by.

CCEE1145 -- Getting 'Shapely" Challenge

2011-11-10T00:01:00.001-05:00

Tosh is our hostess for the CCEE Stampers Challenge in November, and she is doing a series of countdown challenges. Last week we used 4 embellishments........and this week......the challenge is to use 3 shapes. I have ovals, rectangles, and circles (the jewels and brad). However, I also have used my Spellbinder's poinsettia dies and MS branch punch. The oval doily die is from MFT. The image I used along with the sentiment are from MFP.

Be sure to check out the CCEE Blog as I am sure you are going to see some 'shapely' creations from the rest of this fabulous team.

A Totally Stampalicious Monday

2011-11-07T00:01:00.003-05:00

Card made using WINTER BIRD SNOWMAN

Today, ANYTHING GOES with the Totally Stampalicious Challenge. Well, since I was away for the last release, I decided to share a few cards with you today using each of the 7 (yes, 7) sets released while I was in Myrtle Beach. AND.....as a bonus, my holiday stash will also grow as all the sets are holiday related. You will see that I have named the sets used under the cards.

Card using the set called POPPI COCOA

Card made using the set called GOING TO TOWN GUS

Card made using the set called SCARLETTE MISTLETOE

Card made using the set called DEACON AND AVA HOHO

Card made using the set called MARGARET DECEMBER

(You may have already seen this one on SCS for the Sketch Challenge this week.)

Sleeve for acrylic box made using the set called DEACON ELF

(You may have already seen this one on my Saturday post)

SO......now I feel better having shared a project using each of the newly released sets. Aren't they just fun and fabulous??? Each is sure to bring many smiles during the holidays.

Now be sure to visit the Totally Stampalicious Challenge Blog as you are sure to see a variety of projects from this fun and fabulous team. Remember....the theme is ANYTHING GOES....so you never know what you will see!!!!!

AND...don't forget about the lastest promotion.....

Stampalicious Dessert Menu

          Level 1 - Vanilla Ice Cream - Buy 5 Get 1 Free
          Level 2 - Strawberry Shortcake - Buy 8 Get 2 Free
          Level 3 - Triple Layer Chocolate Cake - Buy 11 Get 3

It would be a great way to buy the new releases and some of the 'older'(but still fabulous) stamps.

Sweet Treat Despite Photo Frustration

2011-11-05T00:01:00.001-04:00

This is a recycled project today. The challenge for theh Crazy4Challenge team was to make some type of gift packaging. I decided to use this acrylic box that came with some stamping item I purchased and make a decorative sleeve for it. I used a newly released set from Totally Stampalicious for the image and sentiment. I added some bling and some green ribbon. For purposes of this picture, I put some peppermints inside, but I actually intend to decorate some nuggest of chocolate to give as a gift.....but....if I buy the chocolate too early, I'll be snitching a piece now and again....not good for my health or my weight. So I keep the peppermints around for photos as they don't tempt me in the least. These are probably a year or two old!!!!

Now, be sure to stop by the Crazies Blog to see the fabulous packaging by the other DT members.......and check out the wonderful work of our newest DT member, Dawn Easton.

I must apologize for my picture. I do okay with cards, but with anything acrylic I just can't get a good picture. This is much cuter and crisper in real life.

I'm Late....I'm Late....Even though I was EARLY

2011-11-03T08:19:00.000-04:00

My title refers to the fact that I had this challenge card made wayyyyy ahead of time....HOWEVER....I forgot to create this post....so now it is LATE!!!! Oh well, that's the way life goes sometimes.

Tosh is our CCEE Challenge hostess for November and she challenged us to a countdown challenge. This week we had to use 4 different types of embellishments. I used ribbon, brads, rhinestones, and a metal leaf. I also used this set called Country Thanksgiving from Mark's Finest Papers.

Please be sure to stop in to the CCEE Blog to see the variety of embellishments AND some fabulous cards by my very dear stamping friends.

Reviving an old favorite

2011-11-01T00:01:00.001-04:00

My life has been hestic lately and I've not had time to do many challenges or 'fun' stamping. However, I did both with this card. It was done for the Teapot Challenge on SCS for today. I pulled out this old retired image from SU. Our challenge this week was to use a mosaic technique of our choice OR use flowers. Well, I did both......such an over-achiever....lol!!!

The destination for this card is Teapot Challenge related. One of our Tea Party ladies lost her sister this month and we are trying to bring her some cheer.

If you have some time during the week, you are certainly welcome to join us. You can create a card and send it to our destination or to one of your own. The details are on SCS here.

A Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge and a New Promotion

2011-10-31T00:01:00.001-04:00

Since today is Halloween, it is totally understandable that our challenge was to make HALLOWEEN cards.
I used Fairy Stella with a computer generated sentiment. You might need sunglasses for this mix of colors and dps......lol!!!!

Totally Stampalicious would also like to let you know of a new promotion.

First, the price of ALL sets is now set at $8.95.

Secondly, Let Us 'Treat' You Right!
This brand new promotion is designed to reward you for your AWESOME taste in stamps!

          Stampalicious Dessert Menu
               Level 1 - Vanilla Ice Cream - Buy 5 Get 1 Free
               Level 2 - Strawberry Shortcake - Buy 8 Get 2 Free
               Level 3 - Triple Layer Chocolate Cake - Buy 11 Get 3 Free

So....hope you will take the time to do some shopping and then play along with our challenge. To be inspired, visit the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see what the DT has created for Halloween.

What a difference a week makes........

2011-10-30T09:05:00.001-04:00

Last week we were finishing up a vacation in the Carolinas......walking the Grand Strand in North Myrtle Beach......enjoying the warmth of some 80 degree days.......relaxing with the soothing sounds of the waves on the shore.....exercising in the pool....... Angel enjoying her first visit to the shore (Click HERE to see a pic of our cutie playing near the ocean.)

AND NOW..........The picture has changed.....

Our state is dealing with the results of a nor'easter.......some parts of the state got as much as 18 inches of snow. Our accumulation is not so much because the first few inches were followed by a period of rain......and then we gained a few more inches overnight. It is predicted that some areas will be without power for more than a week. Thankfully, our power did not go out at all!!!!

The state broke records with this storm.......the most snow to fall in October in recorded history.....AND....the most people without power ever, breaking the record set this summer with Hurricane Irene.

Mother Nature can be such a sassy and unpredictable force.

The Crazies are crazy for CANDY

2011-10-29T00:01:00.002-04:00

Since we are very close to the very 'sweet' Halloween holiday, Tammy challenged the Crazy4Challengers to create a card with a candy connection. I used this sweet little House Mouse stamp.....aren't they adorable in their candy corn outfits????? I also used some candy corn dp. I set the whold thing off with some swissdotted orange ribbon.

The Crazies are sure to have a sweet gallery this week, so be sure to stop for a visit to their blog.

MFP 12 Days of Christmas -- Post It Pad

2011-10-28T00:01:00.024-04:00

Speedy the Cat at Mark's Finest Papers likes to get a head start on special Christmas gifts and memories for friends and family. He gathered the design team at Mark's Finest Papers to bring you 12 days of exciting paper crafting gift ideas to get that holiday mojo flowing. The hop runs for 12 consecutive days, starting October 17th!

Begin your holiday hop at Speedy's home base, the Mark's Finest Papers blog and relax with a cup of eggnog (or sprig of catnip, your choice) as Speedy leads you though a short, daily hop. You'll find your holiday paper crafting ideas and supplies at Mark's Finest Papers.

Welcome to the 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop!

We have four samples each day for our hop! Please visit each of the following blogs for holiday inspiration! Start off tomorrow on the MFP Blog for more inspiration!

Day 12 Post-It-Holder Oct 28

I created my post it note holder to fit the longer type of post it. The wonderful thing about 'doing it yourself' is that you can make the holder whatever size you can imagine, using only a bit of basic math/measurement. I used the newly released set called CARDINALS IN WINTER for my image.

We have four samples each day for our hop! Please visit each of the following blogs for holiday inspiration! Start off tomorrow on the MFP Blog for more inspiration!

Joanne
Debbie M
Pam

Challenges with the Stampin B's and CCEE Stampers

2011-10-27T00:01:00.002-04:00

The CCEE Stampers were challenged to make a fun get well card. I think this House Mouse image fit the bill. I paired in with this 'cozy' sentiment which I think makes it even more fun. There are times when you don't feel up to par when you just might want to 'jump into' a hot cup of chocolate or tea or coffee to get 'cozy'.

The CCEE Stampers blog should be a fun stop in blogland with all the fun get well cards. Be sure to stop by.

The Stampin B's challenge this week was to make a gatefold card. I am not a fan of alternate fold cards, but that is what is great about challenges. They make us do things we would totally avoid......lol!!!!

I used an old SU snowflake image and a part of another SU image for the sentiment. I had a hard time photographing this card as their is a metallic effect to the dp AND to the image, as I embossed it in gold.

Now....be sure to check out some fabulous gatefold cards at the Stampin B's blog.

The Carolinas AND a Totally Stampalicious Reminder

2011-10-23T23:00:00.000-04:00

I have had some posts recently, but I have actually been away for almost two weeks. After a stressful September and early October, a vacation that had been put on hold was reactivated again at the very last miniute. The Carolinas were our destination to see family and to relax Here are just a few pictures to share......

Yep, that's right....that is our Angel enjoying the Grand Strand at North Myrtle Beach. What a wonderful traveler she was....all sorts of new adventures for the girl.

This was my view each morning from my bedroom. Nothing is better than waking up to the sound of the ocean.

.....and last, but not least, time spent with my nephew and his wife in their new home was very special. We celebrated his birthday with a fabulous dinner and great chatter.

I am not even going to try to catch up on all the wonderful postings in blogland.......when I have the time I will peruse the work of my blogging friends, but just won't have time to truly catch up and comment.

AND.......please be sure to check out the Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge. I do not have a card since we just returned today (Sunday) and I just didn't have the time to 'create' anything today. A routine should be back in place by Wednesday. And...while I was gone, Totally Stampalicious had a release.....lots of wonderful new sets, especially fun for holiday cards/packaging. Be sure to check out the new sets HERE.

My disappointment on this trip was that I was unable to connect with two SCS/blog friends I had hoped to meet face-to-face, but it just didn't work out.....however I know it will during another visit to North Carolina in the future.

Crazies Go Simple

2011-10-22T00:01:00.002-04:00

Tammy challenge the Crazy4Challenges team to create a one layer card. I decided to have some fun with piercing on my base layer. To that I added some rhinestones, lace, and ribbon, as well as a popped up die cute with the sentiment.

I just know you are going to see some fabulous CAS cards at the Crazies Blog, so be sure to visit this week.

MFP's 12 Days of Christmas -- Acetate Packaging

2011-10-21T00:01:00.003-04:00

Speedy the Cat at Mark's Finest Papers likes to get a head start on special Christmas gifts and memories for friends and family. He gathered the design team at Mark's Finest Papers to bring you 12 days of exciting paper crafting gift ideas to get that holiday mojo flowing. The hop runs for 12 consecutive days, starting today! Begin your holiday hop at Speedy's home base, the Mark's Finest Papers blog and relax with a cup of eggnog (or sprig of catnip, your choice) as Speedy leads you though a short, daily hop. You'll find your holiday paper crafting ideas and supplies at Mark's Finest Papers.

Welcome to the 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop!

We have four samples each day for our hop! Please visit each of the following blogs for holiday inspiration! Start off tomorrow on the MFP Blog for more inspiration!
Lois
Joanne (ME!!!)
Patty
MariLynn

Thursday with the Stampin B's and the CCEE Stampers

2011-10-20T00:00:00.001-04:00

Shirley asked the CCEE Stampers to create their card/project with autumn colors. I just LOVE autumn colors, so this was lots of fun for me. I used the newly released set Country Thanksgiving by Marks Finest Papers. I used some fabulous dp and the card just kind of came together on its own.

Be sure to stop by the CCEE Stampers Blog to see the colors of autumn in all their creative glory.

The Stampin B's were challenged this week to use scoring on their cards this week. I went pretty CAS as I have started a new stash for my friend's daughter to use in her women's ministry. I used the scoring to 'frame' my main panel.

Be sure to stop in at the Stampin B's blog to see how the rest of the team 'scored'.

A Totally Stampalicious Monday

2011-10-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

The challenge for Totally Stampalicious Monday was to make a card using the color combo of purple, orange and black. I decided to use the image from Road Trip Stella from the Bugaboo Line at Totally Stampalicious. The bats and sentiments are from other companies.

Please be sure to check out the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the fabulous AND COLORFUL creations by the rest of the team AND to see how you can play right along with us.

Crazy4Challenges

2011-10-15T00:01:00.001-04:00

The Crazy4Challenges team has a sponsor this week, Outline Stamps, a source for many fabulous stamps. They were kind enough to give us some stamps to play with as well as providing a prize to our participants.

Our challenge this week was to create a holiday card. I just loved this owl stamp, so I went with Halloween. It also gave me an opportunity to use this fab webbing ribbon from Really Reasonable Ribbons. Halloween cards are such fun to make....bright in color and filled with fun!!!

Be sure to check out the fab designs by the rest of the team at the Crazies Blog AND stop in to check out Outlines fabulous products.

MFP New Release and Blog Hop Day 4

2011-10-14T00:01:00.002-04:00

Hello! Welcome to the October 2011 MFP New Releases Blog Hop!

This month's new releases are: Holly Greetings, Christmas in the Country, Snowball?, Country Thanksgiving, Cardinals in Winter, and Ginger Cookies.For your convenience, all these sets are available TODAY at Mark's Finest Papers.

So, do you want to WIN today's Featured Stamp Set: Ginger Cookies? (If you don't want to wait to win, you can always purchase the sets right away! We'll substitute a set from NEXT month's release if today's winner has already purchased this set!)

Ginger Cookies Set Used

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Ginger Cookies. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Emily
Nancyruth
Neva
Faith
Dawn
Marilynn
Patricia
Chrissy
Karen
Pam
Joanne
Markie
Carol
Mark’s Finest Papers

MFP New Release and Blog Hop

2011-10-13T00:01:00.002-04:00

For my Thursday Challenge cards (Stampin B's and CCEE Stampers) please click HERE after checking out this MFP post.

Hello! Welcome to the October 2011 MFP New Releases Blog Hop!

This month's new releases are: Holly Greetings, Christmas in the Country, Snowball?, Country Thanksgiving, Cardinals in Winter, and Ginger Cookies.For your convenience, all these sets are available TODAY at Mark's Finest Papers.

Country Thanksgiving Set Used

So, do you want to WIN today's Featured Stamp Sets: Country Thanksgiving and Cardinals in Winter? (If you don't want to wait to win, you can always purchase the sets right away! We'll substitute a set from NEXT month's release if today's winner has already purchased this set!)

Cardinals in Winter Set Used

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Country Thanksgiving and Cardinals in Winter. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Emily
Nancyruth
Neva
Faith
Dawn
Marilynn
Patricia
Chrissy
Karen
Pam
Joanne
Markie
Carol
Mark’s Finest Papers

Thursday Challenges......

2011-10-13T00:00:00.003-04:00

Shirley challenged the CCEE Stampers to a Columbus Day related challenge. The theme is wide, but must be connected in some way to the Columbus Day holiday. I chose the theme of ecean/navigation and made a lighthouse card. It has been a longggg time since I got a lighthouse stamp out. This one is from the now defunct Cornish Heritage Farms.

Be sure to check out the rest of the Columbus Day related creations at the CCEE Stampers Blog.

The Stampin B's were challenged to use birds, birds, birds. I used a fab dove punch by EK Success, along with a border punch by MS. I added some embossing, a bit of coloring (berries and leaves), and a bow.
We hope you will play along with us this week. You can find inspiration at the Stampin B's Blog.

MFP New Release and Blog Hope -- Day 2

2011-10-12T00:01:00.002-04:00

Country Christmas Set Used

So, do you want to WIN today's Featured Stamp Sets: Christmas in the Country and Snowball? (If you don't want to wait to win, you can always purchase the sets right away! We'll substitute a set from NEXT month's release if today's winner has already purchased this set!)

Snowball? Set Used

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Christmas in the Country and Snowball?. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Lois

Vicky
Dawn
Anne
Peggysue
Connie
Linda
Karen
Patty
Liz
Geri
Lynn
Debbie
Mark’s Finest Papers

MFP New Release and Blog Hop -- Day 1

2011-10-11T00:01:00.001-04:00

So, do you want to WIN today's Featured Stamp Set: Holly Greetings? (If you don't want to wait to win, you can always purchase the sets right away! We'll substitute a set from NEXT month's release if today's winner has already purchased this set!)

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Holly Greetings. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Lois
Vicky
Dawn
Anne
Peggysue
Connie
Linda
Karen
Patty
Liz
Geri
Lynn
Claudine
Debbie
Mark’s Finest Papers

Totally Stampalicious Challenge Monday

2011-10-10T00:01:00.002-04:00

The Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge is a fun one this week (as it is every week)!!! Canada will be celebrating their Thanksgiving on Monday, so we were asked to make a Thanksgiving OR a thank you card. I went with the TY card as I have a feeling I will be needing some of these with my mom now residing in a nursing home. Nurse Margaret is my image and I used a TY image from another company.

Be sure to visit the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the fab creations by this expanded, talented, and oh so friendly DT.

Crazies Go Leaf Crazy

2011-10-08T00:01:00.001-04:00

Tammy, our Crazy4Challenges hostess for October, gave us a recipe challenge. Here is the list of what we needed to use....

Only Leaf Images (yep)
Rust or Burnt Oragne Color (but can have other colors too) (yep)
2 fibers (yep....ribbon and copper cording)
3 embellishments (yep.....1 black flourish, 1 leaf brad, 1 die cut for sentiment)

I think I have them all covered. PLUS....I have another Thanksgiving/Autumn card for my stash. Thanks, Tammy. My sentiment and leaf image are fromt he Autumn Glory set by Mark's Finest Papers.

Be sure to check out the other fabulous leaf creations by the Crazies by visiting our blog.

Challenges to Share

2011-10-06T00:01:00.001-04:00

Shirley challenged the CCEE Stampers to create a card using their favorite color combo AND there must bee a half circle included. Well....I didn't have to think very hard, as black and white OR black, white, and RED are my fav color combos. I used a fab frame by Waltzingmouse Stamps and a great sentiment from Just Ritie to created my design. I added some bling, some flourishes, and Primas. To finish it off, I used a Cheery Lynn Designs Doily in RED for my half circle.

Please be sure to visit the CCEE Stampers Blog to see the fav color combos of the rest of this friendly and fabulous team.

Lois challenge the Stampin B's to create a one layer card. Now THIS is a challenge for me, but I think I met the criteria. I stamped a shadow stamp on the base paper, adding piercing on the top and sides. I stamped my sentiment below the shadow stamping. I then stamped and colored my leaves, cutting them out, and then popping them off the base. Hope that was okay?????

The leaves and sentiment are images from the Autumn Glory set from Mark's Finest Papers.

I can't wait to see what the rest of the teams one-layer cards are....how about you????? We can all find them at the Stampin B's Blog.

Totally Stampalicious Monday

2011-10-03T00:01:00.001-04:00

The challenge for the Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge was to use heat or dry embossing. I went with the dry embossing with my Nesties on the main image and a CB embossing folder on the mid layer. I think I chose Yoga Dottie cuz my life has been rather hectic lately and I really do need SERENITY NOW!!!!

Please be sure to visit the Totally Stampalicious Blog to get all the deets on this week's challenge, how you can play, and other important info that I know is slipping my brain right now. You will also see the fabulous creations by our uber-talented DT.

I am looking forward to some ocean R & R for a day or two. Ah....I can feel that serenity coming in with the tide..........

Crazy4Challenges

2011-10-01T00:01:00.001-04:00

Tammy is our hostess for the Crazy4Challenges for the month of October. Today is World Card Making Day. Tammy had the idea to challenge us to make cards for OWH, otherwise known as Operation Write Home. We are going to send our cards to this wonderful organization who sends our handcrafted cards to servicemen and sevicewomen overseas.......with a twist. They are sent in bundles to posts overseas so that those serving can choose cards to send to family and friends back home. YOU too can participate in this worthwhile effort. It goes on year round, so whenever it is a good card making time for you, you can play too.

One thing to keep in mind when making cards for OWH, is to keep them pretty flat for mailing purposes. For very specific 'rules and regs' go to the Operation Write Home site.

We hope you will play along with us and make the day of someone you may never meet!!! It will warm you heart, theirs too, AND their family and friends who ultimately will receive the cards. Check out the fab samples from the Crazies at the Crazies Blog.

Going Sketchie with Roxie

2011-09-30T00:01:00.001-04:00

Can you tell how much I am loving this leaf image from Mark's Finest Papers. I keep grabbing for it.....love it in multiples, love it layered, love it cut out, love it in all color combos. As a leaf lover from way back, this is one of my favs 'evah'!!!

This card was made for the sketch challenge at SCS. Thanks to Rox for keeping us sketch inspired each week. I just love sketches.

With all the craziness of my life lately, it is fun to pull out some fab dp, use my fav leaf image and PLAY for a bit between the 'cares of the world'. Hopefully my 'real' life will quiet down soon and settle into a new normal and I'll have time to see all the wonderful creations I know everyone is making and sharing on their blogs.

Hugs to all.....

A Challenging Thursday

2011-09-29T00:01:00.002-04:00

This card is done for the Stampin B's Challenge AND the CCEE Stampers Challenge. Faith, the hostess for this week's B's Challenge asked us to make Halloween cards. Cindy, the CCEE hostess for the month of September, asked us to use postage....either a postal image, postal edging, a postcard....or such.

The image and sentiment are from a set called Boo to You from Mark's Finest Papers. The postage 'diamond' is an unmounted stamp I never marked.

Both teams would love for you to play with us. Please visit the following blogs to see the talents of the team members.

Stampin B's Blog
CCEE Stampers Blog

Again.....an apology to my friends in blogland. Time has not been available for much blog hopping to see what you have all been up to. I promise I will try to get 'hopping' as soon as things quiet down on the medical front with my mother.

'Winging it' with Totally Stampalicious

2011-09-26T00:01:00.001-04:00

Today's Totally Stampalcious Monday Challenge is to 'have wings'. I used the newly released Fairy Ava set to create my card. I also used a border punch from MS, my Nesties, and some ribbon from Really ReasonableRribbon. I colored with my Copics and did some paper piercing as well.

Please be sure to visit the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the fab creations by the rest of the DT. Remember our team has expanded, so there will be oodles of inspiration found there.

I have an apology for my blog visitors and my fellow stampers. I have been dealing with some medical issues with my mother so my 'blogland' time has been very limited in the last two weeks. Please forgive me for not stopping in and visiting. I hope to get caught up and back to normal some time soon.

The Crazies Celebrate Halloween

2011-09-24T00:01:00.001-04:00

Barbara challenged the Crazy4Challenges gals to celebrate Halloween for this week's challenge. I just love this little ghost and sentiment from Mark's Finest Papers, so you are seeing it again, this time as a card rather than a decoration on a caddy for treats.

I sincerely hope you have time to check out the Crazies Blog to see the fabulous and spooktacular creations by the rest of the team. They are sure to delight you!!!! We would love for you to play along with us, and you can get all the details at the blog too.

Totally Stampalicious New Release and Blog Hop

2011-09-22T21:00:00.009-04:00

If you are looking for my Stampin B's and CCEE Stampers Challenge cards, click HERE. Of course we would also love for you to check this post out as we are having a fabulous new release and blog hop.

Welcome

to the 14th Stop of our
September New Release and Blog Hop!!

We are so excited to have FIVE NEW STAMP SETS to share with you tonight and they are available NOW at Totally Stampalicious!!! As always we want to give some stuff away and all YOU need to do to be eligible to WIN is comment on all of the Design Team's AWESOME creations!!!

Here's what's up for grabs:
1st Prize - All 5 New Stamp Sets
2nd Prize - $15 Gift Certificate
3rd Prize - $5 Gift Certificate

So are you READY?!!!

Here are the latest additions to the Totally Stampalicious Collection from artist Sylvia Zet !

The card above is using the set called Platypus . The smaller card to the left, which was sneak peeked earlier this week , shows a set called Storybook Elizabeth. Both are such very sweet and fun sets.

And here are the latest and greatest from the Bugaboo Line by Jodie Mackerell!

The card shown above is our sassy and spunky Stella taking a ride in a new set called Road Trip Stella. The smaller picture to the left, a sneak peek from earlier in the week, is a card made from Yoga Dottie. The third picture here, again a sneak peek from earlier in the week, is a card made with the third Bugaboo line set called Ava Fairy.

Now it's time to hop on over to Stacy's Blog to see what fabulousness she has for us to drool over!!!

And here is the entire Blog Hop Line Up in case there are any glitches along the way!

Totally Stampalicious
Angel
Jessica
Cindy
Kendra
Dawn
Lori
Julie
Jessie
Laurie
Lynda
Becky
Joycelyn
Joanne
Stacy
Sue

Thursday...Must Be Stampin B's and CCEE Time!!!!

2011-09-22T00:01:00.001-04:00

This card was done for both of my Thursday challenges. I used a set from Mark's Finest Papers.

Vicky Gould, our hostess this week for the Stampin B's, asked us to use two or more Spellbinders/dies. I met that requirement as I actually used 5 different dies on this one. (....always an overachiever....lol!!!)

Cindy is our September hostess for the CCEE Stampers Challenge, and she wanted us to use a bird on our card/project.

It would be fabulous for you to play along with the teams. Have some fun....STAMP!!! To get your mojo going, visit the team blogs to be inspired.

Stampin B's Blog
CCEE Stampers Blog

Now...let me share a card I made for Wednesday's Sketch Challenge.

This card was made with a recently released set from Mark's Finest Papers called Autumn Glory.

Teapot Challenge and a Sneak Peek

2011-09-21T00:01:00.002-04:00

This is a card I created for yesterday's Teapot Challenge on SCS. I used a sentiment from Mark's Finest Papers on this card. Our Teapot Destination this week is a 20 year old who is suffering from relapsing MS. She was once a competitive swimmer, but now deals with many issues related to her MS. We are hoping that our cards will give her a boost. Remember that you too can participate.

This card is your sneak peed for today. Totally Stamplicious is releasing 5 sets starting Thursday night at 9 PM EST. The Release Blog Hop will also start at that time. The set shown here is called Yoga Dottie and is from the Bugaboo line of stamp sets. Please join us tomorrow at the Blog Hop....you could be a winner!!!!

A Sneak and a Challenge Card

2011-09-20T00:01:00.002-04:00

Let me introduce you to STORYBOOK ELIZABETH, a new TotallyStampalicious set by Sylvia Zet. Isn't she just the sweetest???? This set and 4 others will be released by Totally Stampalicious during their New Release Blog Hop beginning on Thursday, the 22nd, at 9 PM EST. Each set is a delight of its own!!!

This is a card I did for the Inspiration Challenge on SCS on Saturday. The poppies are from a set by that name from Mark's Finest Papers.

A Totally Stampalicious Sneak Peek and Challenge

2011-09-18T22:59:00.000-04:00

This is going to be an exciting week for Totally Stampalicious. We have several new Design Team members, we will be showing some sneak peeks, and on Thursday we will be having a RELEASE BLOG HOP starting at 9 PM Eastern time. Phew!!! Hope you can keep up with everything happening at TS.

Today our challenge was to make a child's b'day card. PLUS we were to give you a sneak peek at a new Bugaboo set called Fairy Ava. Ava is that cutie patootie you see on my card. She comes with a few sweet sayings, one of which I used here.

Now be sure to stop over at the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the fab creations of our newly expanded DT. You are sure to be amazed at the variety and depth of talent displayed.

3-D Templates can be FUN!!!!

2011-09-17T00:01:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone!

It's Saturday which means the "Crazies" are back with another fun challenge for you all.

Before we get into today challenge, as this week is a sponsored challenge we need to introduce this month's sponsor which is Creations by AR . Adela has some awesome templates on her site which I know the "Crazies" have had fun playing with for our challenge this week. The templates come in all formats: PDF, SVG and DXF so that you can use them with your electronic die cutting machines or cut by hand if you don't have a machine. This week's winner will receive two templates of their choice from Creations by AR.

Adela has also offered our blog readers a 10% discount on all her templates during this challenge so that is from September 17th to September 23rd. All you need to do is use the code: challenge10 when you go through the check out.

Now it is time for our challenge, Barb is back with another fun fall themed challenge for us all! This week all you have to do is create a card or project with a pumpkin on it in some form. It can be a card or 3D project.

Front View

This second picture shows you the side view. I did not have any candy in the house to fill it with, but there are actually three pockets (front, back and middle) in which to place some treats. The template I used is called 'The Three Pocket Caddy'. I used the PDF version and I must say that it was easy to put together and decorate. I will definitely play with more of Adele's templates. The stamp set I used is a newly released one from Mark's Finest Papers called Boo to You. A really fun Halloween set it is. Now be sure to visit the Crazies Blog which is sure to have all sorts of 'treats' for you to see.

MFP Blog Hop and Release -- Final Day

2011-09-16T00:01:00.002-04:00

Hello! Welcome to the September 2011 MFP New Releases Blog Hop!

This week's new releases are:Autumn Glory, Boo To You, Covered Bridges, Get Your Broom On .For your convenience, all these sets are available TODAY at Mark's Finest Papers.

So, do you want to WIN today's Featured Stamp Set:Get Your Broom On? (If you don't want to wait to win, you can always purchase the sets right away! We'll substitute a set from NEXT month's release if today's winner has already purchased this set!)

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Get Your Broom On. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Emily
Nancyruth
Neva
Faith
Dawn
Marilynn
Patricia
Chrissy
Karen
Pam
Joanne
Markie
Carol
Mark’s Finest Papers

MFP Blog Hop and Release -- Day Three

2011-09-15T00:03:00.000-04:00

To see my Stampin B's and CCEE Stampers Challenge cards for today, please click HERE.

NOW....here is the Blog Hop and Release NEWS

Hello! Welcome to the September 2011 MFP New Releases Blog Hop!

This week's new releases are:Autumn Glory, Boo To You, Covered Bridges, Get Your Broom On .For your convenience, all these sets are available TODAY at Mark's Finest Papers.

So, do you want to WIN today's Featured Stamp Set: Covered Bridges? (If you don't want to wait to win, you can always purchase the sets right away! We'll substitute a set from NEXT month's release if today's winner has already purchased this set!)

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Covered Bridges. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Emily
Nancyruth
Neva
Faith
Dawn
Marilynn
Patricia
Chrissy
Karen
Pam
Joanne
Markie
Carol
Mark’s Finest Papers

A Feminine Thursday of Challenges

2011-09-14T23:33:00.000-04:00

This has been quite a week......a mix of good (Charlene's visit) and not so good (won't get into that...lol!!).....so I was so pleased that once again I could combine my two Thursday Challenges into one card.

The Stampin B's Challenge for this week was to use at least two border punches. Well, I used one punch twice and another that is almost hidden by my image, but it really is there!! The large punch is by EK Success and the hidden one is by Martha Stewart. I also used a Marvy corner rounder.

Cindy is the hostess for the CCEE Stampers Challenge. She asked us to use the color pink, and then either lace or a doily. My doily die is from My Favorite Things.

My image is by Penny Black. The sentiment is a small stamp that I am sure has a company name, but I forgot to write it down. If you need to know, just ask in a comment and I'll get the info to you.

Please be sure to visit the blogs of these talented teams to see all the wonderful cards they created.

Stampin B's
CCEE Stampers

MFP Blog Hop and Release -- Day Two

2011-09-14T00:01:00.001-04:00

Hello! Welcome to the September 2011 MFP New Releases Blog Hop!

This week's new releases are:Autumn Glory. Boo To You, Covered Bridges, and Get Your Broom On.For your convenience, all these sets are available TODAY at Mark's Finest Papers.

So, do you want to WIN today's Featured Stamp Set: Boo To You? (If you don't want to wait to win, you can always purchase the sets right away! We'll substitute a set from NEXT month's release if today's winner has already purchased this set!)

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Boo To You. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Lois
Vicky
Dawn
Anne
Peggysue
Connie
Linda
Karen
Patty
Liz
Geri
Lynn
Debbie
Mark’s Finest Papers

MFP Blog Hop and Release

2011-09-13T00:01:00.002-04:00

Click here to see pictures from my visit with Charlene (LilLuvsStampin).

Hello! Welcome to the September 2011 MFP New Releases Blog Hop!

This week's new releases are:Autumn Glory. Boo To You, Covered Bridges, and Get Your Broom On.For your convenience, all these sets are available TODAY at Mark's Finest Papers.

So, do you want to WIN today's Featured Stamp Set: Autumn Glory? (If you don't want to wait to win, you can always purchase the sets right away! We'll substitute a set from NEXT month's release if today's winner has already purchased this set!)

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Autumn Glory. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Lois
Vicky
Dawn
Anne
Peggysue
Connie
Linda
Karen
Patty
Liz
Geri
Lynn
Debbie
Mark’s Finest Papers

A Fabulous Visit with Charlene aka Bertie aka LilLuvsStampin

2011-09-12T18:31:00.011-04:00

If you are looking for my Totally Stampalicious post, click here.

Now...on to the REAL news......

I am not one who really likes to share pics of myself.......just hate the reality of them all.....IYKWIM....however, since my dear stamping friend, Charlene (LilLuvsStampin) was kind enough to drive all the way from Michigan so we could meet face to face, I just have to 'get over it' and share some pics. Charlene will have more to share as I forgot my camera yesterday. I only got shots in Mystic and at my house.......! She has already left and is now visiting Cape Cod for a couple of days before heading to Boston to meet up with Julia (artystamper) and Anne (jdmommy). Quite a whirlwind of a trip!!!

Charlene is to the left. I am on the right.

Picture was taken while visiting Mystic, CT.

Charlene and her traveling friend, Sandy, pointing to the Mystic Pizza sign.

Sandy is a film buff, so we had to visit Mystic Pizza for lunch.

Charlene in front of our local diner, named after her (wink!)

It actually was a real diner years ago, but now is a storefront restaurant.

Charlene and I in the stamp cave.

Doesn't look like those showcase ones that many have,

but it works for me. Dawn L. was the one who gave it its name

when she visited a year or two ago. It has cloth walls and no windows....

it is in a real New England unfinished basement.

My tradition when people come to visit is to take a final picture

in front of my fav Japanese maple bush. Unfortunately, after this pic,

Charlene and Sandy headed on the road for Cape Cod.

I hope that have a wonderful trip and am so tickled that they came

to Connecticut to spend some time with me.

Thanks, Charlene.....you truly warmed my heart!!!!

Another Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge...Yippee!!!

2011-09-12T00:01:00.001-04:00

Our challenge for the Totally Stampalicious Challenge this week was........ANYTHING GOES!! Well, I just felt I hadn't given this sweet little bear (known as Franklin Bear) enough attention lately, so here he is. The sentiment is lost in the red, but it says, "Loosen your TIE and have some FUN!!!" Isn't that a great sentiment for so many occasions. I used one of the Wonky Spellbinders'dies and then went a little brad happy.....what can I say......I LOVE brads!!!

Now be sure to visit the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the fab creations of the rest of the team. By the way, our team has expanded to include several wonderfully talented new members.....sure to amaze and inspire you. PLUS....we would love for you to play along....all the juicy deets will be on the blog.

The Day America and the World Cried

2011-09-11T00:01:00.022-04:00

No matter what your political, religious, geographical connections are, this is a day that will always bring strong emotions to each of us. I cannot imagine how it is for the families and friends of the victims. Our state, Connecticut, lost 153 in this attack and has lost 60 more in the wars that have followed.

My memories of that tragic day center around trying to make some sort of sense out of the tragedy for my middle school students. As the Social Studies teacher, I tried to give historical perspective along with comfort. Three other classes squeezed into my classroom that day, along with their teachers, and it was an experience that was shared on so many levels. It felt comforting for the entire middle school to share this together in such close quarters. Seemed to bring a sense of being 'one' in tragedy. It was so hard to fathom that people could hate so much that they killed thousands of innocent people. Students and teachers together lost some of their innocence that day.

Personally I also worried about the repercussions of such an act. How would it affect my draft age nephews? Would war follow? Would it happen again?

I would like to extend a special thought to a New York fireman who died in the events of the 9/11 tragedy. My last name is a very unusual one, and yet, there was a fireman who perished with the same last name of GRZELAK. I am guessing that in generations past we probably share a heritage and maybe a family connection. God bless him and his surviving family members.

If you have a moment and the inclination, I would love to hear your stories/feelings/memories connected to this tragic event and/or this year's tenth anniversary.

God Bless America!!!

The Crazies go AUTUMNAL in color!

2011-09-10T00:01:00.001-04:00

Barbara challenged the Crazy4Challenges team to a color challenge this week. Olive, orange, yellow, and brown were the colors. I used a Mark's Finest Papers set that will be released soon for my leaves. The set is called Autumn Glory. It will be available next week. I also used some autumnal dp, a fancy autumn brad, and some twine, along with some rhinestones that match to rhinestones on the brad.

Now be sure to check out the Crazies blog. I think you are sure to see some beauties in this fabulously warm and earthy color combo.

This card will also be entered into Speedy's Friends challenge which was to use a punch. It is kind of subtle, but I did use a corner rounder punch on the main panel.

Thursday??? Must be CHALLENGE time!!!

2011-09-08T00:01:00.001-04:00

Cindy is the hostess for the CCEE Stampers Challenge this week. She challenged us to make a circle card with some stitching on it. Anne is our hostess for the Stampin B's Challenge, and, since it will be her 48th anniversary soon, she asked us to make an anniversary card. This is my card for BOTH challenges.

I used my Creative Memories cutting system to cut my circle. I layered it with doilies made with dies from Cheery Lynn Designs and My Favorite Things. I addedd a store-bought blooms with some stitching on them and some small rhinestones. I colored my image (from My Favorite Things) with my Copics and then cut it out. This is a skill I am working on. With my weak peepers, it takes longer than it should and isn't always smooth. I then stamped the sentiment (also from MFT) and punched it out with my SU mid oval punch. I then added a gingham brad as a flower center and it was done!!!!!

Now be sure to visit the team blogs of these two fabulous teams.

Stampin B's Blog
CCEE Stampers Blog

This second card is the one I did for Wednesday's Sketch Challenge on SCS. I used Mark's Finest Papers set called Poppies, Poppies, Poppies for both the image and the sentiment.

And....on a personal note.....Thanks so very much for all your kind words on the passing of my beloved Pepper. Your words were very kind and comforting.

A Stampalicious Monday

2011-09-05T09:33:00.001-04:00

My card for today is wild and sassy....just like our Stella!!! Our challenge for the Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge was to use the colors of pink, orange, and yellow. I seemed to have chosen the brightest version of each ot these, so sorry if it hurts your eyes. I used Fairy Stella and cut her out in all her glory and picked a sassy sentiment from the same set.

I hope you will take the time to go to the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the fabulous (and probably more subtle) creations they made with these colors. AND....then, you'll get the juicy details on how you can play along with us.

My Heart Is Less Whole Today...........

2011-09-03T10:34:00.000-04:00

Pepper

May 22, 2003 - September 3, 2011

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.

My life is less 'whole' today!!!

The Crazies Are Thinkin' School!!!

2011-09-03T00:01:00.001-04:00

Barbara is our Crazy4Challenges hostess with the mostest for the month of September. Since September usually means the start of school, we were to relate our cards to that subject. I used a set by Flourishes to complet my card, along with punches from EK Success. My Nesties were used for the image and its frame, and my Marvy scallop and regular corner rounders did the corners. I added pearls, piercing and a bow/ribbon. Including these three items also makes this card eligible for Flourishes Timeless Tuesday Challenge, which was a BINGO challenge.

Now be sure to check out the Crazies Blog to see all the fab creations by the rest of this fabulous team.

This second card is one I did for the Speedy's Friends Challenge this week which was to use bling. I used the poppies set from Mark's Finest Papers. This will be another in my stash going to a friend's daughter's women's ministry.

Sad to say that many of my friends are still without power after Hurricane Irene. For a storm that really had gone down to strong tropical storm status for part of the time it was here, it surely has left our state (and others) in a real mess. Schools have missed 5 days of school and it is still not guaranteed to start on Tuesday. Not a great way to start a school year!!! And again, I must say that the people of New Jersey and Vermont are in my prayers......they had such terrible flooding from the hurricane.

Thursday??? Must be time for challenges!!!

2011-09-01T00:01:00.001-04:00

This my card for both the CCEE Stampers Challenge as well as the Stampin B's Challenge this week. It was also influenced by a recent release of Innovative Stamp Creations.

Cindy is our CCEE hostess for September, and she challenged us to make an autumn card with stitching and a die cut (homemade or store bought). Well, I 'fudged' a bit on this one. It is definitely an autumn card, but my stitching is missing the thread (aka paper piercing) and my die cut is a true homemade one....an image cut out as a die cut.

Emily is our Stampin B's hostess for this week, and she challenged us to use a clip or pin of some type on our cards. I chose to use a simple clear beaded pin from Mark's Finest Papers on my bow.

The stamps I used are all available from Innovative Stamp Creations, a site you might want to check out as they just released some fabulous new stamps, including some as gorgeous as the older ones I used today, which are also still available.

As I explained in my post late Monday, we were lucky to get our power on after a day and a half without it. I am appreciative of that, but so very sad for the many who are still suffering the effects of Hurricane Irene. The stories of the flooding in Vermont are so tragic......whole towns are cut off because of road and bridges washed out. Here in CT so many are still without power.....you don't realize what no power means until you are without it......it is not just luxuries like internet and such that are lost, but gas stations, grocery stores, town services, and so much more. I hope everyone is soon returned to normal AND that repairs are made to enable people to live and work without obstacles. Hugs to all!!!

Now....to bring that touch of joy, be sure to visit the blogs of these two fabulous teams. Their fabulous creations are sure to cheer you up!!!

Stampin' B's Blog
CCEE Stampers Blog

Wishing everyone a touch of joy in their day!!!

Our Electrical Power Has Returned.....Yippee!!!

2011-08-30T00:00:00.000-04:00

We are rather spoiled in my little town. We have a municipal power company and we really never lose power for any length of time. That changed with Hurricane Irene.....Power was just restored at 10:45 tonight after being out since early yesterday afternoon.......and what a delight it is to return to normal routines, especially when rumor had it that we would be out of power for over a week as we had a catastrophic failure of all transformers (whatever that means....sounds terrible to me!!!)

Anyhooooo.....I have a few to share with you today.....now that I also can use my computer and have internet access.......

This is the card I did for Tuesday's Tea Party Challenge on SCS. Its destination is to a fellow Tea Partier who is recovering from surgery. I used a set from Mark's Finest Papers to create the card.

This next project is for the Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge. Thsi week we were to make bookmarks. Be sure to check out the Totally Stampalicious Blog to see the other fabulous bookmarks.

This last one was created for the lifeguard at the nearby town hall pool. I swim there three mornings a week yearround. She has a young family and is leaving us to stay at home with her children. Many of the swimmers during this session are retirees, so I just had to use my swimsuit ladies.

I apologize that I forgot to take the picture of the inside before writing in it, but I wanted to show you the other beauty. They just make me smile!!! Jen will be missed, as she had been the guard since I started going after retiring 5 years ago. However, I am excited for her to be able to spend this time with her family.

Well......I am going to really enjoy my day tomorrow. Will be able to get gas in the car, get a newspaper, drink hot or cold coffee, use lots of light when I read, AND I will be able to see in the stamp cave to stamp. What a wonderful world!!!!!

Flourishes B'day and Fav. Set Challenges

2011-08-28T00:01:00.001-04:00

This is the card I made for Flourishes B'day Card Challenge.

This is the card I made for the Very Favorite Set from Flourishes Challenge. The funny thing is that I first used this set for my Crazy4Challenges card this week AND I just fell in love with it. Masculine cards are so hard for me......so now that I 'cracked' this set open, I know it is going to be my fav masculine set.

I have been reorganizing a bit in my stamp cave, and have 'discovered' some hidden treasures. This set was one of them.

Well, today, Sunday, Connecticut will be dealing with Hurricane Irene. Let's hope we all stay safe and dry!!!

Crazy4Challenges Go Masculine

2011-08-26T23:37:00.000-04:00

Frances is our Crazy4Challenges hostess for August, and as many of you know, she lives in Australia. Well, it will be Father's Day in Australia next Sunday, so she asked us to make masculine cards. I used this fabulous set by Flourishes which was still a virgin. I just know I will use it often now that it is open as it will definitely help with future masculine b'day cards.

Be sure to stop in to the Crazies Blog to see the creations made by this very talented and creative team.

On a personal note, today will be our last day of preparations with Hurricane Irene heading our way. What a week it has been.....first an earthquake and now a hurricane. Not sure what the East Coast has done to anger Mother Nature....be she sure is being pretty vengeful this week!!!!

Hope everyone in its path stays safe and dry!!!

ALSO......are you a mystery solver.....can you tell me what paper tool this is?????

When I started 'weeding' through my stamp cave, it was in a container of tools I use all the time.....I thought it might be a tool to pick up small metal items....a magnet that would extend in length, but I couldn't seem to figure out how to extend it....and as it is it isn't magnetic. Here is is from another side angle....

So......are you my mystery solver??????? If so, please tell me what the 'heck' this is!!!!

Thanks!!!!

Time for the Thursday Challenges

2011-08-25T00:01:00.001-04:00

Charlene, our CCEE Stampers hostess for August, had another interesting fact for us this week.

"The streets of Victor, Colorado, once a gold rush town, are paved with low-grade gold."

GOLD is the operative word. I used a set from Verses that I bought at the June convention in Springfield, MA. I used my star embossing folder, adding some paper piercing, some golden rhinestones, and some golden web ribbon.

Brenda, our Stampin B's Challenge hostess this week, challenged us to make easel cards. I used one of my 'found treasures' (while 'cleaniing' my stamp cave) as my image. It is an unmounted bought years ago at convention, but I think it might be by Stamp Camp. I added the sentiments, fancy tag, brads, paper piercing, and that is about it. I think I will get some good use out of this now that it has been rediscovered.

Now be sure to visit both of these fabulous teams to be inspired AND to play along with us.

CCEE Blog
Stampin B's Blog

Some Challenge Cards to Share

2011-08-24T00:01:00.000-04:00

This is a card I created for Wednesday's Sketch Challenge on SCS. I used a sentiment stamp from Flourishes. It was also done for Flourishes' Timeless Tuesday Challenge which was to focus on the sentiment. This sketch was perfect for that.

This second card was created for Tuesday's Teapot Tuesday Challenge on SCS. Our destination this week is Massachusetts. The recipient is facing another bout of treatment for cancer. We hope our cards will bring some cheer. Birds and flowers were the main goal, but we could also add hearts and ribbons. I used this fabulous Magenta set which was a 'virgin' set. In cleaning out some of my stamp cave, I have made wonderful discoveries of items, like this set, that I love, but haven't used.

Thanks so much for stopping in to see what I have been up to.........we all have so much to do and so little time in which to do it!!!! So please know I appreciate any time you choose to spend here in blogland.

.......on a personal note........

Today the East Coast experienced the strongest earthquake in decades. Its epicenter was south of Washington, DC, but people herre in CT felt it. Supposedly, on the East coast our bedrock is so solid that it causes the quakes to be felt further away than in other areas....or something like that.......Anyhooooo....I did not feel it......when it struck, I was at WalMart suffering a shock of my own.......I don't go there often, but when I do, I stock up......I was flabbergasted by my total rung up just about when the earthquake shook. So.....I had a my own personal shock and never felt the actual shaking from the earthquake.....lol!!!!

Getting Regal with TS Monday Challenge

2011-08-21T23:00:00.001-04:00

Our goal for the Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge was to use three punches.....well....I used four plus two dies, so I am covered. I used LADY JANE from the Sylvia Zet line at Totally Stampalicious. I added a big, beautiful paper rose from Wild Orchid (I think), paired it with my fav B/W dotted ribbon, and lots of punchwork. The border punches are from EK Success, while the corner punch is either Marvy or Anna Griffin.

Hope you will get punchy with us this week. AND.....just a reminder.....we are still on the lookout for 4 new DT members, so check out the TS Blog for info on that, as well as to see the fab creations of the current DT.

What a Day!!!! Saturday Rocked!!!

2011-08-21T00:01:00.001-04:00

I have been very busy today......but no stamping was done. I have a dear stamping friend coming to visit in the few weeks, and I am trying to make a path through my stamp cave so she can get in and see my work area. Most of the time, when I go down to organize, my stamps call out to me and I make an even bigger mess rather than cleaning. Well....I am proud to say that today I made some headway.....long overdue reorganizing. Now, don't get me wrong, it still is a longgggg way from the pristine workshops I see in blogland....mine will never be that!!!!!

I also had such a delightful surprise in the snail mail today. My middle nephew, who lives with his wife in Colorado, recently took a trip to Scotland, England, and Ireland. While in Scotland at a conference, he was staying right across from a stamp store. Well, in my package that arrived today were Scottish related stamps AND some wonderful Tartan plaid designer paper. The store he visited was Stamper's Grove in Edinburgh! I'm not sure they appreciate just how special this gesture/gift is to me........but it just warmed my heart!!!! So. of course, later in the day I also had the pleasure of talking with him and hearing all about this latest trip as well as an earlier one to Japan. Made my day!!!

Colorado must have been in good vibes with me today as I also had a long and fun conversation with a dear stamping friend......{well, actually a friend, not just for stamping}.......who also lives in Colorado. Also made my day........

So...what do I have to share today???? Well, I have some cards that have been waiting to be shared....so here ya go......

This card was done for this week's Sketch Challenge on SCS. It used Nurse Margaret from Totally Stampalcious.

This second card was created for the CAS Challenge on SCS which was to have partial images. I used this retired Southwest set from SU. The sentiment is from Taylored Expressions. Inside sentiment says....'.I just wanted my card to stand out!'

The Crazies Play Bingo with Flourishes

2011-08-20T00:01:00.002-04:00

Flourishes is our sponsor for the Crazy4Challenges this week. That company was so kind to send us sets of stamps to play with......certainly a treat as I've long been a Flourishes fan and customer.

Our Crazy4Challenges challenge this week was to play BINGO. You had to choose a row, diagonal, or column and include those items in your card. I chose the row which included a square card, embossing, and brads. I used this fabulous Violets set from Flourishes. I kept it pretty simple as I wanted the focus on those beautiful blooms.

I also did this card for Flourishes' Timeless Tuesday Challenge which was to use pink, lace, ribbon, and one button.

Now be sure to visit the Crazies blog to see the creations of the rest of this fabulous team AND you might alos want to check our Flourishes beautiful stamps. AND...we would love for you to play BINGO with us this week.

....and here is another card I have to share for today......

This card (sorry for the muddy photo....things weren't cooperating....it is sharp white IRL) is one I did for Speedy's Friends Challenge this week, which is to use embossing of some type. I used the rrecently released set called Butterflies and Wisteria by Mark's Finest Papers.

Totally Stampalicious Release AND Blog Hop!!!

2011-08-18T21:00:00.009-04:00

Welcome to the 2nd stop of the

Totally Stampalicious
August New Release and Blog Hop!

We've got FIVE NEW STAMP SETS to share with you from
Jodie Mackerell's Awesome Bugaboo Line and our new Fabulous Sylvia Zet Line!

All FIVE STAMP SETS are available NOW at
Totally Stampalicious!

As usual we have some FANTASTIC PRIZES to give away and all you have to do is comment on all of the Design Team's Blogs for your chance to win one of the following:

1st Prize - ALL 5 New Stamp Sets
2nd Prize - $15 Gift Certificate
3rd Prize - $5 Gift Certificate

Now are you ready to see what all the hype is about!!!!

INTRODUCING............

Swing Set Deacon

Fairytale Charlotte

(This set will be sold at a discount as there is an error in one of the sentiments.)

For my sneak peeks of the three other sets, which were posted on my blog this week, look at the small pictures below......

The first is Franklin Bear. The second is Fairy Stella. The last is Musical Dexter, and this last set will also be sold at a discount due to an error in one of the sentiments.

Now it's time to hop on over to the fabulously talented and innovative Laurie's Blog to see what amazing creation(s) she has come up with today!

Here is the entire line-up just in case there are any glitches along the way!

Totally Stampalicious

Joanne

Laurie

Stacy

Becky

Julie

Lynda

Cindy

Joycelyn

Sue (SCS Gallery)

Stampin B's and CCEE Stampers Challenges

2011-08-18T00:01:00.003-04:00

Charlene is our August hostess for the CCEE Stampers Challenge. She has been sharing a fun fact with us each week and here is the one for today.....

"You burn 26 calories in a one-minute kiss."

So the keyword for this week is KISS. Well, I (like most of you) have thousands of stamps......and I really struggled with this one. Finally I found this ancient SU get well set. The image has the word 'kisses' on it plus the horizontal panel has 'kisses and hugs' symbols. Phew......was so happy to find that set!!!

Be sure to stop by the CCEE Stampers Blog to see our 'kiss' gallery.

Vicki D. is our hostess for the Stampin B's this week. She challenged us to use distressing on our creations. My struggle with distressing is that I often make smudges or rips that I just can't live with.......and that happened this time too, but I was able to cover the worst ones up.....and, in the end, I was somewhat pleased with the final result. What do you think???? It is certainly out of my comfort zone.

I used a newly released set by Mark's Finest Papers called Black Eyed Susans for Encouragement.

Now....don't get yourself all distressed....we've done that for you......so come check out our distressed creations at the Stampin B's Blog.

This second card will also be entered into Speedy's Friends Challenge as it was distressing this week.

Totally Stampalicious Sneak Peek PLUS Catch Up

2011-08-17T00:01:00.031-04:00

Say 'Hello' to Fairy Stella.....isn't she a hoot???!!!! And....the sentiments that come from her are sassy, funny, and risque!!!! She is one of 5 sets being released tomorrow by Totally Stampalicious. Today is our third day of sneak peeks. Be sure to stop by the TS Blog to see more creations starring our own Fairy Stella. Also.....be sure to come around tomorrow, Thursday, around 9 PM for the start of our TS Release Blog Hop.....you might become a winner if you do!!! Also....if you are interested, Totally Stampalicious is on the lookout for 4 new DT member. Information about this is on the TS Blog.

This was a card I created for the Inspiration Challenge on SCS using a Mark's Finest Papers set called Black Eyed Susans for Encouragement.

This is a card I made for last week's Sketch Challenge on SCS using a Mark's Finest Papers set called Butterflies and Wisteria.

This is a card I made for the Free4All Challenge on SCS which was to use a frame. I used a Totally Stampalicious set called Friendly Dexter for this one.

Recently, when I brought my mother up to New York to meet my brother halfway to Rochester, I got to visit with a dear SCS friend at the rest stop. Sue (coffeestamper) and I had a fab time chatting over some coffee. AND.....she brought me a bottomless bag of treats as an early birthday present (my b'day is in NOV., so it was quite a surprise). One of the gems enclosed in that bag of treasures was this adorable snowman stamp. My stamping time has been somewhat limited lately and it seems like I am always doing required (DT) stamping and not 'playing', so I was determined to find time to make at least one card to show Sue how much I LOVE this stamp. So....that is the story behind this one.......!!!!!!

This is the card I created for the Teapot Tuesday Challenge this week. I used this fabulous Penny Black stamp along with this fab Mark's Finest Papers' sentiment. This card is actually VERY similar to one I made for a long ago challenge, but with different dp and different sentiment.

Well....I think that is enough for today.....I actually have a few more to share, but I'll save those for another day. Hope you enjoyed the variety for today.

Thanks for taking the time if you made it all the way through this post. You are most kind!!!!

Totally Stampalicious Sneak Peek

2011-08-16T08:41:00.000-04:00

Today the Totally Stampalicious DT is sneak peeking another set that will be released on Thursday. This one is Franklin Bear. I kept my card pretty simple, 'cuz Franklin is the star of the day!!!

Please remember that Totally Stampalicious is on the lookout for 4 new DT members. Details on this can be found on the TS Blog.

TS Monday PLUS DT Call

2011-08-15T00:01:00.001-04:00

Today's Totally Stampalicious Monday Challenge was to create a card with a square, rectangle and a circle. I sort of stretched those goals to meet my sketch....lol!!! I have a circle (of which the bottom is covered), actually two rectangles (the green and raspberry panels.....with rounded corners), and a square (the card base itself....again with rounded corners). The set I am sneak peeking today is Musical Dexter. He is a friendly and musical dragon....not the fire breathing kind. This set will be available on Thursday. It has an error in one of its sentiments, so it will be sold at a discount right from its release.

Totally Stampalcious is also on the lookout for 4 new DT members. From my own experience I can tell you that this team is really FUN to be a part of......and many of the images will just make you smile as you work with them. For the actual details on the DT call, please click HERE. The deadline for applications is August 28. (as per post HERE)

Now....take a trip to the TS Blog to see the fab creations of the rest of the team!!!

The Crazies Use Monochromatic Coloring

2011-08-13T00:01:00.002-04:00

The Crazy4Challenges goal this week was to incorporate Monochromatic Coloring into our card/project. Traditionally it is done in hues of gray as I have done, but it really can be done in other colors. I am sure you will see a variety of colors used by the DT. I used a fabulous set by Flourishes for the heart image and the sentiment.

Please be sure to take the time to check out the work of the rest of this team. They inspire me weekly with their talent, so I am sure you will enjoy the view. Just visit the Crazies Blog!!!

Mark's Finest Papers Blog Hop Day Four

2011-08-12T00:01:00.003-04:00

Hello! Welcome to the August 2011 MFP New Releases Blog Hop!

This week's new releases are:Black Eyed Susans for Encouragement, Butterflies and Wisteria, Forest Gifts, Fun on the Farm .For your convenience, all these sets are available TODAY at Mark's Finest Papers.

So, do you want to WIN today's Featured Stamp Set:Fun On The Farm? (If you don't want to wait to win, you can always purchase the sets right away! We'll substitute a set from NEXT month's release if today's winner has already purchased this set!)

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Fun On The Farm. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Emily
Nancyruth
Neva
Faith
Claudine
Dawn
Marilynn
Patricia
Chrissy
Karen
Pam
Joanne
Kittie
Markie
Mark’s Finest Papers

Mark's Finest Papers Blog Hop -- Day Three

2011-08-11T00:01:00.003-04:00

(If you are looking for my CCEE Stampers and Stampin B's challenge cards for today, click HERE. Of course, I would love for you to first check out this post and the blog hop!!!)

Hello! Welcome to the August 2011 MFP New Releases Blog Hop!

This week's new releases are:Black Eyed Susans for Encouragement, Butterflies and Wisteria, Forest Gifts, Fun on the Farm .For your convenience, all these sets are available TODAY at Mark's Finest Papers.

So, do you want to WIN today's Featured Stamp Set:Forest Gifts. (If you don't want to wait to win, you can always purchase the sets right away! We'll substitute a set from NEXT month's release if today's winner has already purchased this set!)

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Forest Gifts. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Emily
Nancyruth
Neva
Faith
Claudine
Dawn
Marilynn
Patricia
Chrissy
Karen
Pam
Joanne
Kittie
Markie
Mark’s Finest Papers

CCEE and Stampin B's Challenges

2011-08-11T00:00:00.001-04:00

This card is for my two Thursday challenges.....

Stampin B's -- As hostess, I challenged the team to use clouds in some way on their cards.

CCEE Stampers -- Charlene is our August hostess and she once again shared a fun fact. ""When glass breaks, the cracks move at speeds of up to 3,000 miles per hour." GLASS is the operative word.

I used this fabulous window set from Flourishes. If I am looking out a window (my glass) this is the view I would love the see each time. As you will see, I have a huge area of the sky that is a cloud or two. AND....this is one of my favorite sentiment stamps ever. So true.......friends, whether near or far, are my world.

Please be sure to visit each blog to see the creativity of these two talented teams.

CCEE Blog
Stampin B's Blog

Mark's Finest Papers Blog Hop -- Day Two

2011-08-10T00:01:00.004-04:00

For your chance to win: Comment on the following Design Team members' blogs TODAY before midnight EDT. There will be ONE random winner chosen from the comments on today's Blog Hop blogs. That winner will win Butterflies and Wisteria. We will announce the winner's name on tomorrow's MFP blog post.

Lois

Vicky
Dawn
Anne
Peggysue
Connie
Linda
Karen
Patty
Roxie
Vicki
Liz
Geri
Lynn
Mark’s Finest Papers

(By the way, if you are saying to yourself.....hmmmmm, I think I have seen those first two cards before, you may not be wrong. I messed up last month and uploaded these momentarily until my error was brought to my attention. However, since I took them down early, I decided to share them once again for those who hadn't seen them....)